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Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask taking leave of absence, cites personal matters

By Manoella Macedo

Boston Bruins goalie Tuuka Rask deflects a shot from the Edmonton Oilers during the second period of an NHL hockey game in Edmonton on Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, John Ulan)

By Manoella Macedo

BOSTON — The Boston Bruins announced on Friday goalkeeper Tuukka Rask will be taking a leave of absence due to personal matters.

The announcement says Rask's leave is effective starting today.

The team didn't offer an explanation, but general manager Don Sweeney said shortly after the announcement on Friday it was not health related. He also asked for privacy on behalf of Rask.

Rask has started only seven of the Bruins' 15 games this season and acknowledged being outplayed recently by Jaroslav Halak.

Rask came on in relief in the Bruins' 8-5 loss to the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night. Halak was pulled after allowing five goals on 19 shots. Rask allowed three goals on the first eight shots he faced.

Boston, which hosts Toronto on Saturday, has dropped three of its last five games.

MORE: Check out the new Bruins Winter Classic jersey

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cox Media Group

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